After years of dedicated leadership, Ebie Holst, Director of Data and Innovation, is moving on to her next chapter. Ebie’s journey with Cleveland Water Alliance (CWA) began as a board member and consultant before she joined the team full-time in 2020. Her deep well of industry knowledge and strategic vision have played a fundamental role in shaping CWA into a global destination for freshwater technology.

Building the Smart Lake Erie Watershed

Ebie was one of the key architects behind our Smart Lake Erie Watershed (SLEW). What started as a conceptual framework has evolved into the largest digitally connected freshwater body in the world, spanning a 7,750-square-mile telecommunications network powered by over 200 IoT sensors. This infrastructure allows researchers, utilities, and water managers to monitor water quality and environmental conditions in real time, and empowers innovators to monitor and benchmark their technology’s performance. Ebie's work on SLEW laid the groundwork for how we deploy, test, and validate critical water technologies in real-world conditions.

Establishing CWA Data Services

Beyond our physical infrastructure, Ebie spearheaded the launch of CWA’s Data Services program. This initiative delivers a continuous, 24/7 stream of real-time data directly to utility operators and regional stakeholders. The program equips water treatment professionals with the advance warning needed to adapt treatment processes and make proactive, informed decisions before altered water reaches their facilities.

Ebie’s Impact on the Water Sector

Ebie’s leadership extended well beyond our region. As a globally recognized voice in water technology, she regularly represented CWA across dozens of international conferences and industry events. Through her work, she helped foster many of CWA’s vital relationships, connecting our team with innovators, utilities, and partners dedicated to solving freshwater challenges.

"Ebie’s vision and dedication have been pivotal to the evolution of Cleveland Water Alliance," said Bryan Stubbs, President & CEO of Cleveland Water Alliance. "She laid the foundation for our testbed infrastructure, allowing innovators to advance critical water technologies to market while establishing our capacity to provide real-time data that empowers utilities to make proactive decisions. We are incredibly grateful for everything she has built here.”

Thank you, Ebie, for all of your contributions to Cleveland Water Alliance. We’re wishing you continued success in your next chapter!